Question : Attrition of Scientists from ISRO

(a) whether the attrition rate of space scientists from ISRO and its affiliated organisations is on the rise in the last three years;
(b) if so, the details of scientists and technocrats who have left ISRO during the last three years along with the reasons therefor;
(c) whether the Government intends to improve working conditions, salary and other facilities of scientists; and
(d) if so, the details thereof and the other steps taken by the Government for promotion of space, science/research and welfare of its scientists?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PG & PENSIONS AND IN THE PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE
(DR. JITENDRA SINGH):

a) No Madam.
b) The attrition of Scientists, on voluntary grounds, working in the laboratories of the Indian Space Research Organisation has been at a very low level in comparison to the authorised level of total Scientists /Engineers / Technologists. During the calendar years 2012-2014, the attrition of Scientists/ Technocrats, on voluntary grounds, in the laboratories of Indian Space Research Organisation has been recorded as under:
i. 2012 - 77
ii. 2013 - 46
iii. 2014 - 51
c) Yes, Madam. As a part of the decadal exercise, the Government has already appointed 7th Central Pay Commission to review and recommend revision of pay and allowances, apart from many other related matters, for all its employees and the recommendations have been in place. With regard to other factors, increased technical challenges in realisation of high technology space projects, research opportunities in cutting edge technology areas and excellent working systems in the Organisation, ISRO has been able to retain the talent and Scientists are committed to work and support the Indian Space Programme.
d) The Department of Space has taken the following initiatives for promotion of Space Science / Research in the Country:
i. One time financial grant to set up Space Science laboratories in select eight Universities in the Country;
ii. Offers specialised academic programmes at PG level at its academic institute, Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST).
iii. Introduced fellowship schemes for post graduate students pursuing space science and atmospheric research in eight Universities in the Country;
iv. Introduction of research fellowship to enable scientists from universities and other academic and research institutions to visit and conduct research work at national laboratories, academic/research institutions,
v. Established Joint Astronomy Programme with participation of other research laboratories and academic institutions in organising research in astronomy area leading to award of Ph.D degree to young research students.
vi. Developed customized academic programme in Space Science area both at Undergraduate and Graduate level at IIST.
vii. Provides research opportunity in Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) for young scientists to take up research in Space Science area leading to award of Ph.D degree in space science and atmospheric research areas through an academic institution.
For welfare of its scientists in the department, DOS provides subsidised canteen food, transport facility, housing, medical and group insurance etc.
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